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Description & Distribution
Vanilla s one of the few contributions of the
West to the world of spices. It was introduced in India during the 19th
century. 80 percent of the world production comes from the Malagasy
republic. The other major producers are Guatemala, Indonesia, Malaysia,
Mexico, Mozambique, Uganda, Sarwala and the Comoros
islands.
Vanilla beans are the fruits of a climbing orchid. The
beans are harvested before fully ripe, fermented and cured. Natural
vanilla acquires the characteristic flavor while natural green beans are
cured. Propagation is by cutting.
Vanilla has a pleasant and
distinct aroma.
Vanilla is cultivated in hot, humid tropical
climate, protected from wind at elevation up to 2500 ft. It requires good
drainage, adequate humus and an annual rainfall of 75-100 inches.
In
India, vanilla is produced in Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Assam,
Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
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